Everyone packs differently depending on need and the destination. I have definitely learned a ton from my husband about international travel, particularly how great it is to have a backpack instead of a suitcase! Based on my last few international trips, I’m still refining my methods. Below are the bare bones of what I start with and then alter it depending on the destination.
Media
- iPhone (serves as camera as well)
- Journal/Notebook
- iPad Pro/Apple Pencil
- Travel guide(s)
Money & Documents
I keep my passport, tickets, phone, and other important papers in a travel wallet and I keep that in my carry-on so it’s very easy to access when I need it.
- Passport
- Addresses for sending postcards/e-mail
- Cash
- Copy of vacation packing list
- Photo ID
- Driver’s license/international driver’s license/copy of insurance
- Paper airline tickets or e-ticket confirmation
- Folder with one paper copy of all booked travel, accommodations, and important info
- Pen
Medical
I always keep a small REI medicine kit that is full of bandages, antibiotic cream, alcohol swabs, tweezers, etc. It depends on your destination what you think you’ll need.
Miscellaneous/Extras
- Anti-bacterial wipes
- Duct tape
- Keys
- Krazy Glue
- Plastic Zip-Loc bags
- Q-Tips
- Scented candle
- Sports gear (running shoes, swim goggles)
- Sunscreen/SPF
- Sunglasses
- Umbrella
Women’s Clothing
- 5 Dresses
- 2 Scarves
- 2 Black Leggings (capri & long lengths)
- 2 Skirts
- 3 Shirts
- 2 Sleeveless Tops
- 2 Sweaters
- 3 Black tights (2 opaque/1 sheer)
- Workout clothes
Shoes & Accessories
- Jewelry
- Cute walking shoes
- Walking sandals
- Dress sandals
- Hiking shoes
- Flip-Flops
Sundries
Make it all fit in a quart bag! I always bring my essentials and buy anything else I need at my destination.
- Blow dryer/Straightening iron/Curling Iron
- Comb & Brush
- Cosmetic case/makeup bag
- Shampoo & Conditioner
- Bodywash
- Toothbrush/Toothpaste/Floss
- Hair oil/Hairspray
- Lotion/Body oil
- Shaving cream
- Moisturizer/Night Cream/Toner
- Deoderant
- Bobby pins/Hair ties